Well, what do the factions get when you do their Survey/Scan missions for them?
The Intel/Data/Knowledge could be gained by raiding/looting already existing sources (such as planets and NPC ships), scanning/salvaging derelicts (especially Domain motherships and research stations!) and caches, surveying planets, breaking down [REDACTED] cores or being generated by planetside structures.
As for uses of this resource.....
1:Planets could use it to boost stability, increase production and growth, reduce upkeep and demand, cut down disruption time. Maybe even increase access, fleet size and defenses?
2:Reveal pather and pirate bases, Also should foil expeditions and AI inspections.
3:Boost fleet CR (up to 100%) or reduce CR of enemy fleets.
4:Unlock blueprints, reveal locations of planets, caches, [REDACTED], derelicts and like.
5:Give skill points to officers and admins.
